Portable Terminal Proximity Detection Using BLE Signal Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users experience unwanted operations and confusion due to oversensitive detection of proximity to an image forming apparatus using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication, leading to unnecessary messages on portable terminals even when not intended for use.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a portable terminal with a display and control system that only shows a message when the intensity of the BLE radio wave from the image forming apparatus exceeds a predetermined threshold value and stops displaying the message when the intensity drops below another threshold or after a predetermined time, ensuring the message is only visible when the user is in close proximity and intended to use the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image forming apparatus sends a radio wave of high intensity to ensure reliable proximity detection, then the detection reliability is improved, but false detection occurs when users merely pass by the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the message display duration adaptable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically adjusts how long the message remains displayed based on continuous monitoring of radio wave intensity. If the intensity remains high (indicating the user stayed close), the message can remain longer; if intensity drops quickly (indicating the user passed by), the message is removed sooner, preventing false detection issues.
2Productivity
If the portable terminal automatically starts operations upon detecting proximity, then operational efficiency is improved, but operations are performed without user intent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by displaying a confirmation message to the user before automatically starting operations. The control unit first detects proximity, then displays a message asking the user to confirm whether they intend to use the image forming apparatus. Only after user confirmation (or lack of cancellation within a timeout period) does the terminal automatically start the operation. This preliminary confirmation step ensures user intent while maintaining operational efficiency.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the message remains displayed even when the user has moved away from the image forming apparatus, then the display continuity is maintained, but the user experiences confusion about the message's relevance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring radio wave intensity during the message display period and using this information to dynamically control message removal. The control unit receives feedback signals from the radio wave intensity measurements and adjusts the message display state accordingly. When the intensity drops below a threshold (indicating the user moved away), the message is automatically removed, preventing user confusion while maintaining display continuity during actual proximity.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable terminal includes a display that displays a message and a controller that controls a cooperative operation with the image forming apparatus. The controller causes the display to display the message when the controller detects a proximity of the portable terminal to the image forming apparatus, and causes the display to stop displaying the message that is displayed on the display when an intensity of radio wave for short-range wireless communication from the image forming apparatus becomes equal or smaller than a predetermined threshold value.